Written question asked by David Heyes (Labour) on Monday, 15 November 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 November 2004. It was answered by Elliot Morley (Labour) on Thursday, 18 November 2004 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if she will ensure that water customers who are in receipt of benefit who have direct payments deducted from their benefit are eligible for direct debit discounts. (Failed OPQ).

Answer: Mr. Heyes: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will ensure that water customers who are in receipt of benefit who have direct payments deducted from their benefit are eligible for direct debit discounts. [198976] Mr. Morley: If companies were to propose a discount for customers using the direct deductions scheme and could demonstrate that it reflected a cost saving, Ofwat would consider whether to approve this discount.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 198976; 426 c1996W;426 c2002W
Session: 2003-04
Question not reached: Yes
Subjects: Billing Discounts Low incomes Non-payment Social security benefits Water Water charges
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk